Chassis No. LSZD53 Engine No. 301DS Body Design No. 7504 Among the most elegant postwar bodies created for Rolls-Royce was the Silver Cloud II Drophead Coupe by H.J. Mulliner, design number 7504. Originally introduced late in Silver Cloud I production, the car was known as an âAdaptation,â as it was created by modifying a factory standard steel saloon body into a drophead coupe. This was achieved by removing the steel top, fitting two doors in place of the usual four, and adding a modified chromed waistline molding. So extensive were Mullinerâs modifications that the resulting car was, in every detail, essentially a fully custom body. This 1961 Rolls-Royce, chassis number LSZD53, was originally delivered to Samuel G. Rautbord, a successful businessman who transformed the American Photocopy Equipment Company (APECO) from near bankruptcy into a thriving enterprise. Not only known for his business acumen but also for his contributions to the arts, he was an avid supporter of the Art Institute of Chicago and the British Museum. A copy of the original build sheet shows that the car was ordered to his exact specifications. Finished in Whitehall Grey over a Scarlet Connolly leather interior with matching piping, it was optioned with electric power windows, plain Sundym glass throughout, preparation for a Delco-Remy antenna, a set of suitcases to be supplied by H.J. Mulliner, lambskin rugs, a heavy gauge frame, and Dunlop Buffalo White side tubeless tires. It is said that Rautbord enjoyed the many Rolls-Royces he owned throughout his life, albeit he left most of the driving to his chauffeur. Upon his passing in 1979, it is understood that New York real estate magnate Lewis Rudin acquired the car. The accompanying ownership card shows notes that the car was used by his third wife, Basha Szymanska, after his passing. Under her possession, the car remained quiescent for nearly two decades until it was taken in 2015 to Automotive Restorations of Stratford, Connecticut. The restoration, which cost over $150,000, included a complete engine rebuild, suspension overhaul, and transmission and differential servicing. Today, the car has acquired just over 1,000 miles since the completion of its mechanical restoration. Unfortunately, Basha would not enjoy the car upon its completion, as it was sold from her estate in 2019. While the ownership transfer took place, the restoration continued. An additional $30,000 was spent to have the coachwork refinished in period-correct Porcelain White, while a new burgundy Everflex convertible top was installed. Inside, new Scarlet Red Wilton carpeting was installed to match the beautiful original Scarlet leather. Today, this magnificent 1961 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II Drophead Coupe Adaptation by H.J. Mulliner stands as a wonderful example of the marque that is complete with a convertible top boot, books, tools, build sheets, and service records.
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- VIN CodeLSZD53
